What is Machine Learning? Let's explore it.
Description
Machine Learning is a subset of Artificial Intelligence(AI). Have you ever wondered how OTT's like Netflix, Hotstar and Prime Video knows what you want to watch that's machine learning in action. These platforms use ML intelligence to analyze your watch history, search behavior and watch time and then it forms personalised feed for you. Let's dive into into the amazing world of the ML in this blog!!!
What Machine Learning(ML) really is ?
Okay so, machine learning? It's kinda like teaching computers to think for themselves... sorta. Instead of us humans writing out every single rule (which is exhausting btw), we just throw a bunch of data at these smart algorithms and they start figuring stuff out on their own. Like, “Oh hey, every time someone watches a rom-com, they also like quirky sitcoms—got it!”
It’s not like programming in the old-school way where you tell the computer “if this, then that.” Nah, here we’re more like, “Here’s a mountain of info—go learn something.” And the wild part? The more data you give it, the better it gets. Like, scary good sometimes.
So yeah, machine learning is basically computers learning from examples, spotting patterns, and making decisions without us babysitting every step. It’s why your phone knows what meme you’ll laugh at next or why Netflix is weirdly good at recommending that one show you didn’t even know you needed.
So How Do OTTs Like Netflix Use It?
Let’s break it down, chill-style:
Smart Recommendations: You watched 3 thrillers and paused halfway through a rom-com? Netflix is like, “Gotchu. Here’s a gritty mystery with a dash of romance.”
User Clusters: You’re not alone. ML groups you with other folks who have similar tastes. If they loved a show, you might too.
Content Tagging: ML doesn’t just say “action movie.” It’s like, “This one's got betrayal, slow burns, and a strong female lead.” Super specific.
Search That Gets You: Ever typed “that show with the guy who time travels”? ML helps make sense of that chaos.
Thumbnails That Speak to You: Netflix literally changes the thumbnail based on what you click on. Like, same show, different vibe.
The Nerdy Stuff (But Fun)
Here’s some of the brainy ML stuff happening behind the scenes:
| ML Technique | What It Does (In Chill Terms) |
|---|---|
| Collaborative Filtering | “People like you liked this—so maybe you will too.” |
| Content-Based Filtering | “You liked this vibe? Here’s more of that.” |
| Deep Learning | “Let me analyze your voice, your clicks, your soul…” |
| Reinforcement Learning | “You clicked it, watched it, rated it—cool, I’ll learn from that.” |
Real Talk: It’s Everywhere
Netflix saves you like a billion hours of scrolling every year. That’s not a flex—it’s ML.
Hotstar knows which cricket highlights you wanna see. Even if you missed the match.
Prime Video adjusts streaming quality based on your internet speed. Smooth.
What’s Next?
ML is getting smarter. Like, scary smart. We’re talking:
AI-generated trailers based on your mood
Interactive stories that change based on your choices
Maybe even shows that write themselves based on what audiences love